Have you noticed the dwindling umber of bees in Vancouver over the past few years? Just in my lifetime, I have watched the number of bees that populated my small, but luscious garden decrease. I used to be scared opening my gate, with lavender bushes filled with honeybees pouring over our walkway. But as each spring rolls around fewer and fewer bees are around to pollinate making it rare to even see a few.
Why are Bee Populations Shrinking?
Most of the reasons why scientists think bees are dying off are due to human impact that could be minimized. The use of pesticides and herbicides for agriculture, particularly Neonicotinoid (a type of pesticide), are killing bees off. Also increased radiation in the air, from using cellular devices and climate change could be contributing factors. All of these reasons have resulted in a loss of 25% of Canada’s bees from the past winter.
Why Are Bees so Important?
Bees are major contributors to the ecosystem and our lives. They pollinate which allows plants to reproduce and creates lots of the food we eat. Without bees, we would lose at least 1/3 of food that our society is dependant on.
So if you aren’t motivated by saving future generations of climate change, losing many of the amazing fruits and vegetables that we depend on could motivate you. Instead of driving your car, ride a bike. Instead of buying produce that is sprayed with pesticides and herbicides, buy organic food. And finally, do your part to limit the amount of cellular radiation that is going into our environment so that way be can continue to enjoy these foods we all love.
Leave a Reply